Discover Il Sereno Lago di Como

Where is the Il Sereno Lago di Como located?

Located in the rustic town of Torno, less than 10 miles from Como, Il Sereno Lago di Como sits right on the eastern shores of Lake Como. It’s surrounded by a beautiful natural landscape, with an unobstructed view of the lake. There, guests are invited to discover the heart of one of Italy’s most romantic spots! 

The hotel has many transfer options. Choose a 1-hour car ride from Milano Malpensa airport aboard the hotel’s very own Masserati Quattroporte or even across the lake, aboard one of their famous Riva boats (handmade by the same family since 1771, and which can also be privately chartered for a tour of the lake), which will dock at the hotel’s private facilities. The hotel is also partnered with Monacair to offer luxury helicopter transfers for guests. 

Design and Atmosphere

This hotel is unique with the decision to not conform to Lake Como’s already expansive list of classical-style establishments, such as the iconic Villa d’Este and Grand Hotel Tremezzo. Il Sereno’s management enlisted the services of various local architects to give the hotel its distinct look such as Ceppo Lombardo for the hotel’s iconic façade. 

Yet, it was Spanish architect Patricia Urquiola who brought her unique contemporary and minimalist flair to the Il Sereno. The design brings a breath of fresh air to the hotel landscape of the region. 

The interior design incorporates natural materials (think wood, stone, copper) and fabrics, alongside a gentle color palette that reflects the natural elements of Lake Como. This allows Il Sereno Lago di Como to blur the line between man-made comfort and natural beauty. 

The common areas of the hotel feature natural materials through innovative and modern designs. The sun deck (unsurprisingly also the best spot at the hotel to sit down to enjoy the sunset while sipping on an evening cocktail) boasts one of two awe-inspiring vertical wall gardens by Patrick Blanc. It’s covered with over 256 species of plants. Meanwhile, the lobby and bar display stunning woodwork in the form of spindly poles that border the main staircase as well as the bar area. 

Il Sereno Lago di Como Rooms and Suites

The first impression of the 30 rooms and suites is sleek, chic, and cozy. The large floor-to-ceiling windows, just opposite the king-size bed, open onto the balconies to allow for plenty of light and air during summer. Of course, it also offers the perfect vantage points for a clear view of the lake. 

The minimalist interiors make up for a lack of items by featuring a number of understated pieces of furniture. You’ll find a Franco Albini library or a Gio Ponti living room vintage chair that gives a borderline industrial feel to some areas. While other pieces such as the B&B Italia Bend-sofa or even the iconic, teal-colored Husk chair, add a touch of extravagance and playfulness. 

Somehow, the first impression still manages to be one of warmth and comfort. The bathroom’s walnut wall and ceiling paneling teamed with a Lariana bathtub are especially noteworthy. 

While the Penthouses are absolutely stunning, the Darsena Lago Suite truly encompasses the philosophy of the Il Sereno. Guests are able to admire the stunning stones of the old shipyard right from their living areas or even out on the balcony. 

Food, Beverages, and Dining Experiences

On the culinary front, Il Sereno boasts the cuisine of Executive Chef Raffaele Lenzi. Dinner at Il Sereno Al Lago, offers a number of tasting menus such as Constrasti & Contraddizioni or the vegetarian option Vegatali, Tuberi & Radici. It’s designed to introduce guests to regional cuisine as well as gourmet international cuisines. Pair with the excellent wines from the hotel’s extensive cellar for an excellent culinary experience.

Meanwhile, for lunch, guests can order traditional Italian dishes and specialties from various regions of the country à la carte. The saffron risotto with the Genovese ragout and mushroom powder, and the chocolate mille-feuille were two highlights from the lunch menu.

The Lobby Bar, boasting various outside and inside areas, allows guests to wander about to experience the different moods of the hotel. Guests can take a seat in the living room-style area or out on the outdoor terrace to enjoy the lakeside view. Alongside the aperitivo menu (featuring such dishes as the Tacos stuffed with smoked salmon and steamed buns) the bar also has a menu of signature cocktails, each made with the finest of ingredients and prepared by the expert mixologists of the hotel.

Wellness Facilities and Activities

The Spa occupies another area of the ancient boathouse, being transformed into a zen and intimate area of relaxation and rejuvenation. Alongside an outdoor relaxation area and a pool built over the water, the spa includes a sauna, a steam room, and 3 treatment rooms. Guests can enjoy a large menu of massages and treatments that feature products from the famous Valmont brand. 

The Rejuvenate by the Lake treatment is a must-try. Enjoy a soothing exfoliation treatment followed by a deep tissue massage with products that include ingredients from Lake Como itself.

The hotel also offers boating activities for guests. Choose to hop aboard the historic Cantiere Ernesto Riva Boats or the Inglesina Rowing boat experience, that comes with a picnic hand-made by Chef Lenzi. Additionally, guests can opt for activities that will allow them to visit the region, such as hiking in the mountains surrounding the Lake, or going on a shopping spree in the neighboring towns. On site, the Il Sereno also offers wine tasting nights in the cellar and cooking classes with the hotel’s culinary team. 

What we love about it:

• The sound of the lake in the evening and the sight of the sunset over the water makes you feel as if you are on a boat.
• The saffron risotto was truly out of this world and a highlight of an excellent menu.
• The recently opened Penthouse Suite designed by Patricia Urquiola is absolute stunning. What truly makes it a guest’s dream is that every item in the Penthouse is available for purchase, making it the first shoppable Penthouse suite in all Europe.